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Message of Christmas never changes

By Scott W. Rozanas
Polo

Dec. 24, 2012

Although a born-again Christian, I agree with a recent letter that times are changing for Christians and Christmas [“Christians get too uppity about greetings,” Dec. 8]. The blessing of our Christian heritage – freedom, opportunity and dignity of all life – is also our curse.

The letter’s claim of no Christian foundation in America actually confirmed it. Otherwise, why would we need to “let go” of something that did not exist? We’ve valued every person, but the by-product has been to equally value all religions. To value every person is wise, but to assume every religion or political system is true or good, is not.

The letter failed to consider that one religion is true. If people can make up a god, then it is not worth worshiping. If religions are different paths to the same God, then one dangerously assumes God will accept any form of worship.

Six thousand years ago, God began interacting with us, as recorded in the Bible.

Two thousand years ago, Jesus lived, performed miracles, died, and rose from the grave.

Some witnesses believed; others did not.

God invaded our world as Jesus Christ – heaven and humanity connected. Jesus explained the only path to heaven: “Ye must be born again.” “Repent and believe.” “Worship in spirit and truth.”

Although I am the last person who should be writing this (I still sin, sometimes gravely, to my shame), I empathize with Apostle Paul:

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life” (1Timothy 1:15-16).

That is the message from the true God, from the Bible, and of Christmas. Merry Christmas.